A new report from analysts with industry research group, Sandler Research, forecasts the Global Riot Control System Market for the next four years — but beyond a burgeoning market to parallel the expanding global police state, it appears world governments are also keenly aware of civilian discontent. Sandler predicts the market will have an annual growth of 3.5 percent, and makes a telling juxtaposition,

emphases added, involving the United States:

“Law enforcement agencies around the world are the biggest market for riot control systems. This market is expected to generate revenues of over USD 3.5 billion by the end of 2020. Countries such as the U.S., Iran, Egypt, Russia, China, and Thailand have started procuring riot control equipment and are investing heavily in [non-lethal weapons]. Moreover, special vehicles that are equipped with water cannon and reservoirs have been designed for security personnel, for use in areas of conflict to handle large crowds and demonstration. Demand for such equipment is expected to rise during the next few years.”

The GOP convention is scheduled for 18-21 of July in Cleveland. What’s the chance of protests dominating the convention? 100% Here’s a good example of why:

The Federal government gave Cleveland a $50 m security grant to prepare for the convention. With this money, the city plans to field 4-5,000 officers drawn from around the state. Here’s what it they plan to equip them with:

However, the city didn’t put the bid for this equipment out until March. Even if the equipment does turn up in time for the convention (unlikely), there won’t be any time to train with it.

This degree of organizational incompetence is more than sufficient to guarantee a bad outcome for a convention city in a good year. However, this year’s convention won’t be a normal protest.

It will be something altogether different, considering the number of groups planning to protest, the number of protesters expected, the passion of the protesters, recent innovations in disruption, and the quality of the protest leadership headed to Cleveland.

This summer, the city will be hosting the Superbowl of Protest.

Unfortunately for the citizens of Cleveland and the hapless GOP, the city can’t play at that level.

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